One story in particular that stands out to me, is from about a year ago. A patient arrived to us via EMS from a car accident. Kimberly discovered the patient was attempting to drive a long distance by their self. We felt this was odd, and inappropriate for this patient's age, and the time of night. An order for discharge was written, and the patient indicated their plan to get a taxi, stay in a hotel, and rent a car in the morning.
Kimberly decided to keep the patient here until morning. The patient did not sleep, so she helped them into a chair near her desk and talked with them for a couple of hours, gave them a sandwich and milk, and listened to their stories of their younger years. Within those couple of hours, Kimberly recognized that the patient was demonstrating signs of dementia. She also discovered that they did not know any phone numbers of children or relatives. The patient did not have a wallet, or any means to rent a car or a hotel room. They demonstrated confusion and could not state where they were, what day it was. It was determined that this patient simply could not be discharged to walk out the door, and to make their own decisions safely. This is only one of MANY reasons that Kimberly deserves the DAISY Award. She takes the time to assess situations that may otherwise be overlooked. She cares for the patient while they are here...and beyond.